Jeff Lehmkuhler has never seen lower hay quality than what he witnessed in 2025. With winter weather extremes and spring-calving cows in their third trimester, he recommends pulling forage samples to document what nutrient levels exist in unique lots of hay, then adjust accordingly.
Communicating the importance of nutritional sampling is a simple action for veterinary teams and animal health pros. Leave a few copies of this article at the local coffee stop where producers gather to share their experiences and challenges. It might save a calf or two.
Source: Hay and Forage Grower, January 29, 2026. Link.
Farmers can’t afford to feed hay without knowing its nutrient content” – Jeff Lehmkuhler
Image: Link.